[Breeding places and biting activity of Anopheles species in the municipality of Cimitarra, Santander, Colombia]

Abstract

Introduction: Forty five percent of malaria cases in the department of Santander, Colombia originate in the municipality of Cimitarra. This locality has reported cases from the rural and urban areas. The population between 15 and 45 years of age is the most affected. Additionally, Cimitarra has registered malaria cases in children under 1 year of age.

Objective: To determine the biology and behavioral aspects of Anopheles mosquitoes from Cimitarra to more effectively orient control strategies.

Materials and methods: During October to December/2002 and March/2003, anopheline collections were undertaken. Isofamilies were obtained from 620 wild females.

Results: The following species were found in order of abundance: Anopheles (Nyssorhynchus) triannulatus (Neiva y Pinto 1922), Anopheles (Nyssorhynchus) nuneztovari Gabaldón 1940, Anopheles (Nyssorhynchus) rangeli Gabaldón, Cova-García y López 1940, Anopheles (Anopheles) pseudopunctipennis Theobald 1901, Anopheles (Anopheles) mattogrosensis Lutz y Neiva 1911 and Anopheles (Anopheles) neomaculipalpus Curry 1933. The highest biting rate (0.5) was recorded for An. nuneztovari and An. triannulatus indoors between 20-21 hours. Forty two breeding places were sampled, 81% were fish ponds, 9.5% puddles and 2.3% cement tanks. Eighty seven percent of fish ponds were located near dwellings, being positive for anopheline larvae.

Conclusion: This study has shown that in Cimitarra cryptic and sister species of Anopheles genus occur in sympatry, Nyssorhynchus subgenera.